Heating schemes save money and create jobs

Community heating schemes could save householders money on their bills, thanks to researchers from the University of Edinburgh.

The researchers are examining how the schemes, already popular in other parts of Europe, could work in Scotland by capturing heat from industrial sites and running it via underground hot water pipes to homes and businesses.

Professor Jan Webb, from the School of Social and Political Science, said: "Huge quantities of heat produced in and near cities are wasted. Investing in energy efficiency and district heating could not only reduce costs and tackle fuel poverty but it could also support local jobs."